LABASA’S economy received a significant boost during the BiCFiji FACT tournament, with accommodation providers, restaurants, and small vendors reporting strong business activity due to the influx of football teams and supporters.
Fiji Football Association chief executive officer Mohammed Yusuf said the town was fully booked during the competition, highlighting the positive economic impact major football events bring to the northern division.
“The town was fully booked. This is how we contribute to the town when tournaments are held in Labasa,” he said.
Yusuf said players and supporters have played a key role in driving local economic activity, with increased demand for hotels, guest houses, transport services, and food outlets throughout the duration of the event.
“The players and supporters have also played a big role in boosting local business, as accommodation facilities, restaurants, and small vendors experience increased demand during the event.’
He said that the presence of visiting teams and fans has helped bring life to the town, creating a vibrant atmosphere that is felt across businesses and public spaces.
“Local hoteliers confirmed that most rooms were fully booked well ahead of match days, while taxi operators and bus services also reported higher passenger numbers.”
He said the tournament had become one of the key sporting events in the calendar, providing both economic and social benefits to the community.
Ba won the tournament defeating Navua 3-1 in the final on penalty kicks.
The Ba side edged hosts Labasa 1-nil in extra time in the semi-final.
In the other semi-final, Navua edged Lautoka 2-1 in extra-time after both teams were locked 1-1 after full time.
The teams will return to the Extra Premier League this weekend.
